Engine Problem Shortens A Strong Run In The California Auto
Club 200
The Waterloo Tool Storage team ended the 2001 season with a strong run in the
“Auto Club 200” at California Speedway, until a rod broke in the engine on Lap
48 leaving the #63 Ford in the 29th finishing position.
During the Thursday practice session, the crew made the necessary adjustments
to help driver, Larry Gunselman pilot the #63 Ford truck to 20th
fastest time (43.043 seconds @ 167.275 mph) of the 43 trucks on the track. In
Friday’s qualifying attempt however, the truck was tight in the center of the
turns, which resulted in a 28th starting place for the race (43.005
seconds @ 167.422 mph).
"We learned a lot during Thursday's practice session and Friday's "happy hour,"
commented owner and crew chief, Mike Mittler. "The truck was tight in qualifying,
but we were able to give Larry a good setup for the race."
Starting the race in 28th position, Larry was able to move forward
almost immediately. By lap 40 he had worked the truck into 22nd place.
However, on lap 48 a rod broke in the engine ending the race in 29th
position.
"The truck was good all weekend." stated Larry. "Everything the crew changed
helped us get better, except in qualifying. The truck was just too tight in
the center of the corner on our qualifying lap. The truck handled great in the
race. We were moving to the front, sometimes three-wide. It was fun driving
out there today."
The Waterloo Tool Storage team ended the 2001 season in 26th position
in owner’s points and 23rd place in driver’s points. The best starting
position was 19th at Texas Motor Speedway and the best finish was
16th place at Kansas Speedway.
"We want to extend a special thanks to everyone who helped us in some way this
year, especially our marketing partners and volunteer helpers," commented Mike
Mittler. " Our primary partner, Waterloo Tool Storage was great to work with
and certainly helped us have a fun and successful year. We look forward to the
2002 race season."
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